Korean Dictionary
How to say "Outcast" in Korean
“Outcast” in Korean is 아싸 (pronounced "assa").
아싸
assa
Usage & Context
Slang for someone who is socially isolated or not part of the popular group. Often used self-deprecatingly by introverts or loners.
Example Sentence
나 진짜 아싸야.
I'm really an outcast.
How to use 아싸 naturally
Quick answer
The Korean word for “Outcast” is 아싸, romanized as assa.
Usage tip
Use slang only with friends or people who already speak casually with you. It can sound rude in formal Korean.
Common mistake
Do not rely only on the English meaning. Read the Korean example sentence and notice the particles, word order, and politeness level around 아싸.
Pronunciation Guide
Pronounce '아싸' as 'ah-ssa'. 'Ah' sounds like the 'a' in 'father'. 'Ssa' is a tense, double 's' sound, similar to 'sa' in 'sad' but with more emphasis and tension, almost like 'ssah'.
More Example Sentences
Someone self-deprecatingly describing their introverted weekend plans.
나는 주말에 집에서 혼자 영화 보는 아싸야.
I'm an 'assa' who watches movies alone at home on weekends.
A student expressing loneliness and a desire for social connection.
새 학년이라 아직 아싸인데, 친구 사귀고 싶어.
It's a new school year, so I'm still an 'assa', but I want to make friends.
Someone feeling hesitant about attending a social event with popular people.
인싸들 파티에 아싸인 내가 낄 수 있을까?
Can I, an 'assa', fit in at an 'inssa' party?
Cultural Context
`아싸` (assa) is a popular slang term derived from 'outsider'. It refers to someone who is socially isolated, not part of the popular crowd, or prefers solitary activities. While it can sometimes be used negatively, it's very often used self-deprecatingly by introverts or those who choose a less social lifestyle. It's the direct opposite of `인싸` (inssa) and is a common topic in youth culture, K-dramas, and K-pop, often highlighting the struggles or unique charms of being an 'outsider'.
Editorial note
We flag slang like 아싸 for register and audience, since Korean slang can shift quickly and may sound rude outside close friendships.
Reviewed by Min-jung Park, Korean Language Teacher. Updated May 31, 2026. See our editorial standards.
Common Phrases
나는 아싸야.
I'm an 'assa'.
아싸의 삶.
The life of an 'assa'.
아싸 탈출.
Escaping 'assa' status.
Related Expressions
인싸
inssa
insider, popular person (antonym)
혼밥족
honbapjjok
people who eat alone
집순이/집돌이
jipsuni/jipdori
homebody (female/male)
왕따
wangtta
outcast, bullied person (stronger, more negative connotation)
More Slang Words
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